James Hodge v. HHS - Influenza, Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS) and/or chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP) (2024)
Case summary [AI summaries can sometimes make mistakes]
On December 21, 2020, James Hodge filed a petition alleging that an influenza vaccination administered on December 20, 2019 caused Guillain-Barre syndrome and/or chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy. Respondent denied that Mr.
Hodge suffered either GBS or CIDP, denied that the flu vaccine caused any injury or current condition, and denied vaccine sequelae. The public stipulation decision does not describe his onset, neurologic workup, treatment, recovery, or expert opinions.
Special Master Nora Beth Dorsey adopted the parties' stipulation on December 30, 2024. Mr.
Hodge received $50,000.00 as a lump sum payable to him for all damages available under the Vaccine Act. The compensation decision therefore records a negotiated resolution while leaving the disputed diagnosis and causation issues unresolved in the public merits record.
A later October 6, 2025 decision addressed attorneys' fees and costs only.
Theory of causation
Adult petitioner; influenza vaccine December 20, 2019; alleged GBS and/or CIDP. COMPENSATED by stipulation. Respondent denied diagnosis and causation; public merits text lacks clinical chronology. Award $50,000.00 lump sum. SM Dorsey December 30, 2024. Petition filed December 21, 2020.